The History of Veterans Day

Written by: Keya Gambhir

Every year on November 11, people across the United States celebrate Veterans Day, a time to honor everyone who has served in the U.S. military. From soldiers and sailors to airmen and marines, this day reminds us to thank all veterans, both those who are still with us and those who gave their lives in service.

How Veterans Day Began

The story of Veterans Day starts with World War I, a massive global conflict that ended more than 100 years ago. The fighting stopped on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, November 11, 1918, when an armistice, or temporary peace agreement, went into effect. That day became known as the end of “the war to end all wars.”

In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson announced the first Armistice Day to honor the soldiers who fought in World War I. He said that Americans should feel “solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service.” The first celebrations included parades and moments of silence at 11:00 a.m. across the country.

By 1938, Armistice Day became an official U.S. holiday. But after World War II and the Korean War, millions more Americans had served in the armed forces. To include all who served, Congress changed the name to Veterans Day in 1954, and President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the law making it official. Since then, November 11 has honored all veterans, men and women from every generation who have helped protect the nation.

A Day of Respect and Reflection

Veterans Day is not just a day off from school or work. It is a time to say thank you to those who have served. Many cities hold parades where veterans march proudly, and communities decorate with American flags. Across the country, schools hold assemblies, people send thank-you letters, and families visit cemeteries to place flowers or small flags on veterans’ graves.

One of the most special events happens at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, where leaders lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This memorial honors soldiers whose names are not known but whose sacrifice represents all who have served.

Other countries also have similar observances. In Canada and the United Kingdom, the day is called Remembrance Day, and in France and Australia, it is also a time to reflect on those who fought in wars. Everywhere, November 11 reminds people of the cost of peace and freedom.

Who Are America’s Veterans Today?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there were 15.8 million veterans in the United States in 2023. That means about 6% of American adults have served in the military. Of those, 1.7 million are women, making up nearly 11% of all veterans, a number that continues to grow as more women join the armed forces.

Veterans come from all backgrounds. Around 72% are White, 12% are Black, 8.6% are Hispanic or Latino, and smaller percentages identify as Asian, Native American, or Pacific Islander. Some are in their twenties, just recently out of service, while others are over 75 and fought decades ago. About 28% of veterans today served after the September 11, 2001, attacks, while 33% served during the Vietnam War.

Honoring Service in Many Ways

There are many ways to show appreciation on Veterans Day. People can attend local parades, donate to veterans’ charities, or volunteer with groups that support veterans returning to civilian life. Students often write thank-you cards or interview veterans to learn their stories. Even a simple “thank you for your service” can mean a lot.

Modern celebrations, as described by Military.com, often include concerts, flag-raising ceremonies, and events at schools and museums. Some cities light up buildings in red, white, and blue. Social media campaigns also spread messages of gratitude and share photos of veterans and their families.

No matter how it is celebrated, Veterans Day is about remembering the courage, dedication, and sacrifices made by the people who wore the uniform. They have protected not only our country but also the values of freedom and democracy that define it.

Why It Matters

Veterans Day reminds us that peace and freedom come at a cost. It is a day to look back with gratitude and look forward with hope. Whether it is by joining a parade, visiting a memorial, or simply taking a moment of silence, everyone can take part in honoring America’s veterans.